Battling Depression in Crohn's Disease
By Connie Brichford
Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin MD, MPH
Crohn’s disease disease is a difficult condition to live with: Symptoms of Crohn’s include diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, ulcers, and reduced appetite and weight loss — all of which can sap your physical energy and make you feel down emotionally. There's no question that living with these symptoms affects your mental and emotional well-being.
In fact, many people with Crohn’s disease experience depression. “Depression and Crohn’s are very commonly seen together,” says Frank Sileo, PhD, a licensed psychologist practicing in New Jersey.
Crohn’s Disease: Why You Feel Depressed
There are a number of reasons why people with Crohn’s disease experience depression. Understanding the connection between the two conditions is the first step toward dealing effectively. Here's what people with Crohn's disease should know:
Chronic illnesses affect mental health. People suffering from both a chronic illness and depression may find that each makes the other problem worse. “Individuals with Crohn's disease are dealing with a chronic illness that is out of their control," says Dr. Sileo. "There is no cure, and it impacts work, social, academic, family, and other areas of one’s life.” The words “no cure” carry a heavy weight. And not too surprisingly, facing a situation of that magnitude can lead to a more pessimistic view on life. Prolonged periods of feeling hopeless, helpless, and pessimistic are all symptoms of depression.
The physical challenges of Crohn’s disease are hard to cope with. Sileo says that Crohn’s disease “breeds a sense of helplessness and confusion.” Crohn’s disease is particularly challenging because it is so unpredictable. “There is always the threat of symptoms flaring up,” he says. It can be extremely stressful to live a normal life with this kind of uncertainty always hanging over you.Crohn’s disease can affect your personal life.
In addition to physical problems, you might find yourself making lifestyle changes — not because you want to, but because you feel you have no choice. People living with Crohn’s disease might find themselves canceling plans with friends when symptoms flare up, and end up spending more time alone. Or they might notice that their Crohn’s disease symptoms are preventing them from working as quickly as they once did, causing their job performance to suffer, which can lead to a loss of self-worth.
Some people with Crohn's disease also feel guilty about burdening family and loved ones with their problems and withdraw from them, leading to even more isolation.
Treating Depression Along With Crohn's Disease
The encouraging news is that depression is a treatable condition, but it is one that requires professional help, Sileo says. If you have Crohn's disease and think you might be exhibiting signs of depression, the following steps can help you to get back on the right path:
Talk to a professional. Your family physician can help you find a mental health counselor or a psychologist who can help you. The mental health professional will work with you to develop strategies to combat your symptoms of depression, such as setting realistic goals and identifying negative patterns of thinking.
Do something positive for YOU.
Many people find that starting a moderate exercise plan or learning meditation techniques can have positive results. You might also want to start a new hobby or visit a place you've always wanted to go to. Setting aside time to do the things that are pleasurable to you will remind you of the many positives in life.
For some people, taking antidepressants may be the solution. If your depression is not relieved by therapy and other lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant likesertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine(Prozac). Since medications are usually an important part of managing Crohn’s disease, make sure you discuss any antidepressants you're prescribed with your gastroenterologist as well. This will prevent negative interactions with your Crohn’s medications. A mental health practitioner who is not an MD may not know how a new drug will affect your Crohn’s medications, but your gastroenterologist will.
Treating depression in people with Crohn’s disease is especially important. “Depression wreaks havoc on our immune system," says Sileo. "Because Crohn’s is an immune-system disease, treatment of depression is very important to avoid overtaxing an already compromised immune system.”
SOURCE: Everydayhealth.com
